All children need immediate feedback to assist in developing the neuron connections within the frontal cortex that are associated with self-regulation, including decision making.

One form of feedback is encouragement, the acknowledgement of a young child’s effort. When a child feels that his effort is recognized and appreciated, he develops a desire to try harder in the future. You can also use encourage-ment before and after an activity to help the child improve his behavior.

It’s important to remember that PRAISE and ENCOURAGEMENT are not the same.

 Encouragement focuses on effort.

 Encouragement is specific and honest.

 Encouragement does not set children up for failure or comparison.

 Encouragement helps children develop an appreciation of their own behaviors.